CASE: LE and LF v Public Guardian [2009] NSWADT 78

WARNING: This case covers the topic of advance care planning and end-of-life treatment, and may not be suitable for all listeners.

Perhaps one of the hardest decisions to make could be whether or not to terminate life support in the knowledge that it will result in a person's death.

People will generally have an idea of whether or not THEY would like to be kept alive on life support, but how do you make the decision for another person?

Mr A was only 44 years old when he had a terrible accident while rock fishing that resulted in brain damage. He was put on life support with no expectation of recovery. His doctors recommended ceasing life support and his wife and son agreed. However, his niece and distant family members disagreed and wanted the power to make all future medical decisions for Mr A.

The matter came before the Administrative Decisions Tribunal to determine whether or not the Palliative Care Plan for Mr A was appropriate.

THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE.